Free Gold Coast Activities for Families

Aside from the beckoning thought of planning the perfect trip for the family, there’s always the worry of going over budget.

One of the mistakes we make is thinking that fun can only be had when we break the bank — truth is, there are plenty of exciting activities you can do with the family for free the next time you’re on the Gold Coast.

How lucky we are to have nature right at our doorstep. No matter where you go, the outdoors won’t disappoint. The hard part really comes in deciding which national park or hike trail you can fit into your itinerary, and of course, which ones are suitable for the kids.

The Rock Pools in Currumbin Valley is a hidden retreat just 30 minutes from the centre — explore and have a go at jumping into the pristine lake water of this valley gem.

If you’re curious to drive inland instead, there’s also Tamborine Mountain, pick an easy trek to do with the family and find the perfect place to settle for a picnic.

With just a bit of research, you can narrow down a few national parks that everyone in the family can hit off inone go — the trick is to not be disheartened with the thought of not being able to do them all.

Markets are free to enter and can be budget-friendly (if you see to it as a great source for knick-knack hunting). What better than to come home with an intricate item made by a Queensland local?

The Gold Coast is home to an array of unique markets perfect for a morning pursuit. Consider the Carrara Markets , or any other Gold Coast markets close to where you’re staying on your to-do list with the family.

Carve some time out of the early hours to grab fresh local produce, homemade baked goods and coffee, or to just fire up your senses and take in the smells and sights of your holiday location.

If you findyourself visiting the Gold Coast between June to November, you will have the opportunity to take the family down for some whale spotting. That’s right, pack your gear for the day and head on down to the coastline for the chance to see the humpback highway.

The kids will love to be able to spot a whale or two or three during peak season of the whale migration. Boat tours can be expensive but there are ways you and the family can get in a slice of nature with snacks in one hand and a sharp eye.

Find the best watch point along the coast and set-up camp for theday. Tally how many you spot as they pass by and don’t forget to take a few snapshots of the moment if you can.

When it comes to the Gold Coast, beaches are a must-visit. Try Surfers Paradise and some of the most popular (for good reason) beaches of Australia.

Or Evandale Lake, a local favourite and hidden gem that most tourists may not know about. There are plenty of beaches up and down the Gold Coast, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Anyone andeveryone can enjoy a sunset. It’s quite literally one of the things you can dofor free and a great way to spend some down-time with the family.

Burleigh Hill is renowned for its sultry lookout of the coast with views all the way to Surfers Paradise. End the day by grabbing a spot atop the grassy area with a picnic rug and a takeaway meal, and watch the sun sink away into the night.

If you’re after more sunset spots, read our article on exploring some Gold Coast hidden gems. 

Want to take it easy and get the kids involved with the arts and culture scene? You may feel like the option of air-conditioning sounds more desirable if you’re visiting over summer as days can reach up to 39°C.

Plan a list of the art galleries in the Gold Coast you could visit with the family in exchange for a day out in the heat. Your travel plans don’t have to be reserved to just outdoor activities only – there’s quite a few interactive and impressive art exhibits around that will get your creative intuition buzzing.

If learning about history sounds more appealing, drop by the Gold Coast Historic Museum or ride some waves indoors at Surf World – the museum of surfing. Some of these even offer tours along the way. Fun, free, and educational; triple bonus.

Let the kids expend some energy on the playgrounds of the Gold Coast whilst you get the BBQ or picnic going. Getting on a hike trail or driving can take a toll on you, meanwhile kids have a lot of stamina to release, and daily activities may notbe enough for them.

Playgrounds andwater parks certainly make their way onto the list of great children’s activities on the Gold Coast, and there are many interesting ones located around the area in which will surely pique the thrill levels of your little ones.

Palm Beach Playground is just one of the playgrounds situated ona large open, grassy parkland that overlooks Palm Beach. Maybe make a day tripout of it after you come back from feeding the lorikeets at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary as these locations are only 20 minutes apart.

Just heading up north on the coast, there’s also The Rockpools at Broadwater Parklands in Southport which should help cool the family down on a hot day.